Bike Nirvana
Yet another cycling blog
Shimano SH-MT44B and PD-M424
April 14, 2016
After the failed operation of my "grocery bike," I rushed back to The Brick Multisport Shop hoping that they would still accept the return of the SRAM Rival, considering it is a second-hand item.
Leroy wasn't around at the time I arrived, but the lady manning the store gave me assurance that their return policy includes second-hand items and told me to just look for items of the same or higher value for exchange. I feel like shopping!
I thought this is the time to man up and try clip-less pedals and shoes. The Shimano SH-MT44B comes in only two colors, so I picked the blue. For the pedal, I opted for the PD-M424 that comes with SH-SM51 cleats.
Finally, I took the Elite Kit Ponta integrated bottle and cage.
Leroy arrived as I was closing the deal and I thanked him for the superb policy instituted in his store. As usual, he is very accommodating and humble as we parted ways, for now.
SH-MT44B multi-sport/touring shoes
The primary reason I wanted this model is because I can still walk comfortably with it. The SPD cleat is not much of a burden and is recessed but will still touch a flat floor or concrete. Be aware when walking on wooden floors with the shame of ruining it.
Note that when buying the shoes on its own, it doesn't come with cleats.
I installed the PD-M424 pedals into the Classic Birdy the night before the ride to get accustomed to the entry and release process. Alas, it was terrible to the point I wasn't able to release the left shoe which is stuck in the pedal.
The cleats provided with the pedals is a single-direction (outward) release and that needed a lot of practice. In the end, I was able to get the hang of it and roade my Classic Birdy at MOA with no incident, thankfully.
Conclusion
Fit and comfort are important factors, otherwise it doesn't matter how good looking the shoes are but if they will cause discomfort it's a no go. Fit is really snug and yet doesn't choke my feet.
Ventilation is pretty good which is a bonus for long rides.
Cleaning it though, is such a PITA. I will never bring this to a muddy trail again.
Shimano PD-M424 pedals
These are entry-level pedals and I chose them because of the wider area should I chose to use my Five Ten shoes.
These pedals are quite heavy at around 460g for the pair. The cage is made of aluminum and the spindle is chromoly.
Clipping in to these pedals is not difficult as they always seem to be horizontal and ready to engage. Being dual-sided adds to the convenience. I had to adjust the tension though to ease out the release process which works better for me when I twist my heels inwards instead of outwards. Trouble is, I hit the seat tube of the bike a lot.